Eternal Empire: Court of Mystery, #14

Eternal Empire

A Court of Mystery Novel

Sarah E. Burr

Spotlight Publishing Productions

Copyright © 2024 Sarah E. Burr

All rights reserved

The characters and events portrayed in this book are fictitious. Any similarity to real persons, living or dead, is coincidental and not intended by the author.

No part of this book may be reproduced, or stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without express written permission of the publisher.

Cover design by Sarah Burr at Spotlight Publishing Productions

Printed in the United States of America

Contents

Title Page

Copyright

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty-One

Chapter Twenty-Two

Chapter Twenty-Three

Chapter Twenty-Four

Chapter Twenty-Five

Chapter Twenty-Six

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Chapter Twenty-Eight

Chapter Twenty-Nine

Chapter Thirty

Chapter Thirty-One

Chapter Thirty-Two

Acknowledgments

Author’s Note

Sarah E. Burr Books

About The Author

Welcome to the Realm of Virtues…

Centuries ago, priests of the Ancient Faith lorded over the continent, building their empires on fear and greed. Poverty and sickness ravaged the world, forcing a faction of rebels to rise and overthrow these tyrants preaching in the name of silent gods. The leaders of this movement, known in the annals of history as the Rebirth, proclaimed the realm would no longer answer to nameless demons and gods, but to the virtues of bravery, humility, kindness, and intelligence. Sealing their pact, these newly anointed leaders drank the dew of the fabled kingsleaf flower, marking them and their offspring forever as destined rulers of the realm with their royal eyes. Under their care and guidance, the dukedoms flourished for over five hundred years.

Yet, inequality and injustice persist. Malevolent foes plot their next move. It is up to Duchess Jacqueline Arienta Xavier and her loyal companions to root out the evils that haunt the Realm of Virtues.

Chapter One

Duchess Jacqueline Arienta Xavier studied the slip of weathered parchment in her hand.

We aim to cross the southeast border within the coming day, where the herbalist was last seen. Will write when able. No sign of our shadow, either.

G

The woefully short message brought a frown to her lips. Yet, she knew it was for the best that their communications remain brief. Someone else might be reading them.

Is that an update from George? Perry’s concern wiggled its way into her whirling mind.

Jax glanced across her desk, her amethyst gaze resting on her beloved husband. He sat at his own workspace, a fixture she’d recently installed in her study. Without it, Jax feared she would barely see the man, due to her busy schedule.

It is. She rose from her chair and closed the distance between them. Unfortunately, it’s not very insightful.

Perry accepted the letter, his brow furrowing as he skimmed its meager contents. Virtues, it’s been over a fortnight since George last wrote. But it looks like he and Serafina have finally picked up the trail and found a safe way out of Savant. He kissed her palm before placing the note back into her hand. No doubt thanks to your skillful intervention.

She twisted one of his dark, wild curls with her finger. You give me too much credit, dearest. After learning about Savant’s dire circumstances, it only made sense to try and cease the terrible power struggle afflicting the nation.

Yet, no one else in the realm saw fit to take action. Perry held her gaze, his lavender eyes burning bright with pride.

Because they all look to Saphire. The thought both pleased and overwhelmed her. She glanced away from his handsome face, guilt beginning to claw at her throat. I should have intervened sooner.

If you had done that, there’s a very real chance your assistance wouldn’t have been as well-received. Perry stretched his toned arms above his head, stifling a yawn. If things in Savant hadn’t been so dire, the warring factions may have declined your offer to facilitate a meeting on neutral ground.

Jax abhorred the notion that innocent people had to suffer for such a realization to come to fruition. "Things are still dire. She wrung her hands as she considered the current circumstances. Yes, there’s been a ceasefire, but violence isn’t the only enemy of peace. We have hunger and homelessness to combat as well. Vice-Admiral Hightower has already requested five additional caravans of supplies." She’d sent the trusted officer and her fastest horses to Savant with a humanitarian delegation. A demonstration of her commitment to helping the war-torn land.

Perry winced. I’m going to have a hard time being chivalrous to our guests after hearing such news.

Me too. Jax returned to her chair, her focus narrowing on the stack of papers before her. Honestly, I’d rather neither lot take up the seat of power after all the pain they’ve inflicted these past weeks. But we must start somewhere. She selected the scribbled reply she’d received from Finral Lothaine, the leader of Heartsworn. His faction was the least funded, but it had support from more of Savant’s citizens. Whereas Corentin Allard’s group, Lion’s Bane, had several wealthy benefactors yet less backing from the people.

When Duke Qylvard Savant’s untimely death was announced little more than a month ago, his duchy had dissolved into civil war, with different citizen groups vying to claim his empty throne. Two strong contenders emerged after weeks of fighting. However, battles and riots continued to rage with no signs of ending.

Upon receiving word from her friend, George Solomon, that the citizens’ rebellion had driven many Savantians to acts of desperation, Jax understood the time for waiting things out had passed. Alarming reports indicated that food and medical supplies were running dangerously low in the duchy, so she had written to Lothaine and Allard, offering her aid. In return, Jax asked that the men travel to a neutral meeting ground in her homeland of Saphire. I wish for there to be a peaceful resolution between Savantians in this conflict, she’d emphasized. You have my word that your claims to its throne will be protected as long as civility is upheld during this summit. Should either of you break this agreement, rest assured, the might of Saphire and her allies will descend upon your nation, and order shall be restored.

Jax didn’t like threatening either man with claiming Savant for herself should they undermine the peace of this upcoming gathering. She may have been the ruler of many nations throughout the Realm of Virtues, but none had come to her through the use of force. Her ideals and leadership had earned her these thrones, and unless the Savantians offered the duchy to her, she had no desire to take it. Well, perhaps that wasn’t entirely true. Jax had once dreamed of ruling all the nations within the Realm of Virtues, if only to ensure the democratic ideals her current lands practiced were implemented and upheld by all. Yet, with the recent ascension of new leaders who promoted these same values, other duchies were following in her footsteps, intent on bringing a better future to their citizens. She didn’t have to bear the burden herself anymore.

The only nation in turmoil, still chained by the old ways of the realm, was Savant.

Do you think Lothaine and Allard will adhere to the summit guidelines you’ve set? Perry cocked a dubious eyebrow.

Jax studied the curt response Corentin Allard had sent, in which he begrudgingly accepted her invitation to Saphire due to his soldiers needing the medicine she offered. While I’d like to think so, the fact of the matter is, neither party trusts my intentions. They believe I plan to take Savant as another jewel in my already weighty crown. A sad smile spread across her lips. And after being under Qylvard’s tyrannical rule for so long, I cannot blame them. Jax rubbed at the pressure building behind her right temple. Out of habit, her fingers traced the subtle scar that disappeared up under her hairline.

Qylvard may have been a terror, but history is on your side, Jax. Every nation under the United Duchies came to you honestly.

She appreciated her husband’s unwavering support. Still, I must be on my best behavior. A light giggle floated over her lips. The only role I intend to play during this gathering is peacemaker. An expeditious one, too, if I’m to resolve this nightmare before Carriena’s wedding in little more than three weeks’ time.

Perry didn’t join in her laughter—her words only deepened his growing frown. I worry about what trouble this might bring you, my love. Both Lothaine and Allard have proven they will do whatever it takes to claim Savant for themselves. They’ve put thousands of lives at risk, the very people they wish to rule. Who’s to say they won’t try to take down someone they believe to be just like Qylvard?

The thought of losing her life terrified her.There was still much she wished to accomplish in the realm to guarantee its security going forward. But Jax kept her head held high and her determination resolute. Then I will prove to them I am nothing like that vile man.

Perry rose with fluid grace and came to her side. Of course you’re not. I just hope these men are willing to see it. He pressed his lips against her aching temple, lingering on the old battle wound she had earned from going head-to-head with the late Duke of Savant.

She leaned into his warmth before replying. Your concern has been noted, Lord Percival. Besides, Aizen and Ziri are doing their best to ensure our safety. Jax pointed to the detailed schematic Captain Rami Aizen of the Ducal Guard had provided her during a recent briefing.

What’s this? Perry studied the sketch with interest.

"This is where we shall all convene for the Savantian Summit. She gestured to the large map of Saphire hanging nearby from a wall. Glennfeld Manor. One of the Crown’s largest estates. It’s near the southern border. Very stately and obscenely grand. Jax rolled her eyes in a teasing manner. If I’d had a younger sibling, it would have been their permanent residence once they married."

Perry hunched over her desk to examine the interior layout Aizen had drawn. It looks like a fortress.

That’s the whole point. Jax folded her arms. "I wanted to host the delegations here at the palace, but Aizen was adamant the risk would be far too great. He didn’t think it wise to allow Savantian forces to roam through Saphire’s southern lands on their way here."

He has a point, my love. Perry shifted on the balls of his feet. There’d be little to stop them from scattering and assaulting your southern villages.

Yes, I realize that now. Jax’s brow wrinkled with annoyance. Not at Perry, but at the fact she hadn’t originally foreseen such dangers herself. Luckily, she was humble enough to listen to wise counsel and accept that when it came to strategic maneuvers, there were better, more experienced minds than hers. Aizen wanted the summit to take place in a controlled makeshift encampment near the southwest border, but I persuaded him that we needed to be a little more…diplomatic with our setting.

Perry chuckled. You wish to welcome these men as if they were a royal delegation.

"What I wish is for us to treat them like respected leaders, Jax said with a slight sniff. Not the thugs Aizen seems to think they are."

So, why Glennfeld Manor, of all places? Perry perched on the edge of her desk.

Jax’s throat tightened with sudden emotion. Well, I think it would be nice to visit it one more time before… Her words trailed off.

Anxiety danced in Perry’s eyes. Before what?

Sit down, won’t you, dearest? Jax beckoned him to take a more comfortable seat. I have something to discuss with you.

You’re not planning to ship me off to Glennfeld permanently, are you? You haven’t grown tired of me already? While Perry’s words were said in jest, there was a glimmer of apprehension in his gaze.

Jax shook her head in hurried reassurance. You’re stuck here at my side forever, I’m afraid. You see, I have plans for Glennfeld. Her hands dropped to cradle her belly—her sadly empty belly. "While Master Charles has encouraged me to hold on to hope that we may yet conceive a child, I must begin thinking about Saphire’s future—the realm’s future."

Perry’s pale skin lost all its natural color. I see.

With the amazing alchemical and medical advances across the continent over the last decade, women had been carrying babies safely and successfully to term well into their forties. Having recently celebrated her thirty-first birthday, Jax was still in the prime of her life, yet for all their efforts, she and Perry had not succeeded in conceiving a child.

An heir.

Virtues, how she’d grown to hate that word. And not only because every other question she fielded from her advisors these days was when she would produce an heir. No, she hated the sense of destiny it forced upon someone. Her whole life, she had been labeled as the Saphirian heir, shackling her to the duchy’s throne. She loved her nation with every fiber of her being, but only because she had accepted her fate at a very young age. Had she not, perhaps she would have turned out as greedy and corrupt as the late Qylvard Savant.

In recent months, Jax had been thinking even more about what it meant to be an heir. Her uncle, Darian Fangard, had ceded the Duchy of Cetachi to her after learning his wife was pregnant. His tender, thoughtful words floated through her mind often. I do not want my son or daughter to be the heir apparent to Cetachi’s throne. I want them to be able to choose whatever life they see fit. I don’t want them to feel tied to a crushing duty, forced to push their personal feelings aside for the sake of their duchy.

At the time, Jax hadn’t agreed with her uncle’s actions but held her tongue. Yet, as the weeks passed, those words had wormed their way deep into her mind and heart. Shouldn’t every parent want such a thing for their child? Could she really ask of her offspring what her father asked of her? Jax knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that her parents loved her and had only made her the heir because that was how things in the realm had been done for hundreds of years. But things were changing now. People held greater power over themselves and had the chance to forge their own destinies. Could Jax deny such a decision to her own flesh and blood?

I need to ensure the Unified Duchies are left in capable, just hands, she explained, not quite meeting her husband’s intense gaze.

Do you intend to pick a successor and install them at Glennfeld? Perry’s kind voice held no judgment.

No. She willed herself to share her plan out loud. She had been stewing on the notion ever since they’d returned from Lady Uma’s eventful engagement party three weeks ago. I’d like to turn Glennfeld into a school.

Perry did a double take. A school? For what? Whom?

She grinned at the sudden enthusiasm brimming from him. He didn’t think her idea absurd. In fact, he sounded rather excited. For people who wish to become leaders. Future village premiers. Governor Royales. Right now, our elected officials are learning by doing and by what I have taught them. But I won’t be around forever. This school can see that young and old minds alike are molded.

Perry bobbed his head. I like the idea, Jax. Truly, I do.

She sensed his rebuttal. But?

He winced. Won’t this lead to another disparity among the masses, with only the wealthy being able to afford this special education?

Ah, perhaps. She smiled. "If I didn’t intend for the school to be free to those who are accepted."

Free?

Jax selected one of the documents she had been working on for the past hour. I’m in the process of setting up a grant to fund the school, its teachers, and staff. With Glennfeld being Crown property, the estate costs would be minimal, save for upkeep and staff, much of which I already maintain now. With tuition no longer an issue, students would be admitted based on an entrance exam and interview. We’d accept anyone over the age of eighteen who displays an earnest desire to promote and better our democratic ways.

I must say, Perry mused, his smile growing wide, this sounds like an incredible opportunity for higher education in the realm. He paused. What do you think the Academy will have to say about it?

Jax rolled her eyes. Headmaster Daghir doesn’t own the right to teach people. The Academy had been the lone source of higher education on the continent for as long as Jax could remember. As much as she championed the school and its progressive ideals, the Academy was still in a state of transition after the former headmaster’s sudden passing. She couldn’t rely on them to help her bring her goals to fruition.

Have you spoken with your advisors about this? Perry steepled his fingers together.

She reached across the desk and took his hand. No. I wanted your opinion on the matter first. Do you think I’d make a fool of myself announcing that I planned to open a school? Would anyone come?

Perry threw his head back and laughed, the hearty sound shaking his entire being. Would anyone come? Darling, I think you’ll have more applicants than you’ll know what to do with.

The thought was daunting but heartening. I’ll have a hard time turning away anyone interested in learning how to govern.

Then I shall help, Perry reassured her, for I think this is a fine idea. But what, may I ask, does this have to do with our situation? His gaze darted to her belly.

Jax glanced longingly out the window, admiring the beautiful castle grounds covered in summer wildflowers. Our people already elect their village leaders and each duchy’s Governor Royale. What if… Was she really going to suggest it? What if they elected the High Throne as well?

As the reigning Duchess of seven nations, Jax had recently united her holdings under the Unified Duchies banner. While each nation had a Governor Royale to oversee its administration, all the governors reported to her, the High Throne, to ensure no corruption took root. She also managed the Unity Fund, from which the nations were financed.

Perry’s jaw dropped to the floor. He blinked several times before he was able to respond. Y-you want to give up your Crown?

Not give it up, per se. She rose from her chair and glided to the window overlooking the sweeping meadows between her castle and the capital city, Sephretta. But I do not wish to burden our child with its heavy weight. I want them to find their passions in life, discover what makes their heart beat faster, and follow that love to the ends of the realm.

Perry was at her side in an instant, his arms encircling her waist. But what about everything you’ve built, Jax? Everything you’ve worked toward?

She considered her deep-seated dreams of ruling the realm and bringing democracy to all. A year ago, she believed it to be a feat only she could accomplish. But the human spirit had proven her wrong. She didn’t need to hold dominion over every nation to see democratic ideals flourish. That was already happening beyond her borders, with other sovereigns changing their ways. The duchies of Tandora, Lysandeir, Mensina…Virtues, even Beautraud and Zaltor were working toward giving their people a voice.

Yes, it was time to let go of her lingering desire for power and fully embrace what she had long been preaching.

What I’ve worked toward is for our people to be happy. To be able to live a life where they can choose their own fate. Jax turned to face her husband, threading her fingers through Perry’s hair. I wish that for our child as well, should we ever be blessed by the Virtues.

He cupped her cheek in his warm, calming palm. I shall support whatever decision you make, my love.

Thank you. She kissed him deeply, wishing they could return to bed. You might be the only person to do so once I bring forth this proposal to my advisors.

He chuckled. While your courtiers might give you a hard time, I’m sure Uma and the others will at least agree.

Jax pictured the faces of her loyal companions and smiled. If only everyone else could so readily take my side as you all do. Savoring one last kiss, she broke their embrace and returned to her desk. While my plans for the school will have to wait until after the summit has concluded, I shall use our excursion at Glennfeld to assess what updates the estate needs in order to function properly as an educational institution.

Two birds, one stone. Perry smirked as he reclaimed the chair at his workspace. I shall reschedule my museum opening until after Carriena’s wedding, then, so that I can be at your disposal.

Thank you, dearest.

Jax sincerely appreciated his dedication to her cause, even at the expense of his own endeavors. Since he’d become her consort, he’d opened a grand theater in Saphire, and now there was this new museum to look forward to. She was very proud of Perry’s achievements in the cultural world.

It will be a lovely event to attend once all this unpleasantness with Savant is behind us.

Perry nodded at the scrap of parchment discarded on her desk. What do you make of George’s missive? Can we hope to see him and Serafina at Carriena’s wedding?

Her gaze dropped to the scribbled writing once more. We aim to cross the southeast border within the coming day, where the herbalist was last seen.

We can always hope, but Serafina’s mission takes precedence, I’m afraid.

George’s cryptic words were meant to be nearly indecipherable should this letter fall into the wrong hands. The herbalist no doubt alluded to Elias Pettraud, Perry’s brother and a traitor to them all. His proclivity for using poisons to carry out his dastardly deeds had earned him the moniker the herbalist in George’s secret communications. I just hope Elias is found and the Intelligeye sigil is recovered before it falls into the hands of his mysterious new master.

Perry stilled at the mention of his eldest living brother. I cannot believe what he did to the Solis twins, he seethed through gritted teeth. To poison Lenora’s siblings so savagely, after all that woman has done for our family.

Jax’s hand tightened into a fist. For many years, Lenora Solis had served as the Pettraud court physician and helped raise Perry and his brothers after their mother’s death. To learn Elias had poisoned Lenora’s younger brother and sister all in pursuit of some ancient artifact was yet another reason he must be stopped. The man had no issue harming others if it meant his own gain.

As she stewed over her brother-in-law’s numerous misdeeds, Jax traced George’s words No sign of our shadow with a finger. And luckily, there’s been no sighting of Emeraude Odaire, either.

Let’s pray it stays that way. Perry reached for his quill and returned to his work.

Jax did not share his optimism. During their recent visit with Uma’s future in-laws, Jax and her companions encountered the Grandmaster of the Shadow Brethren, the realm’s criminal guild. The meeting had been…enlightening, to say the least. Emeraude had declared her intent to hunt down George and Serafina as they seemingly shared the same quest: to locate the Virtuous Favors.

Jax still didn’t understand what the Virtuous Favors truly were. From what she’d gleaned from Serafina, they were fabled relics created around the time of the realm’s founding. Whether they really contained mystical powers bestowed by the Virtues had yet to be seen. But dark forces were at play in the struggle to find them. Not just Emeraude Odaire. No, someone who troubled Jax even more: an unknown foe who had already caused a great deal of misfortune across the continent.

A nightmare by the name of the Dark Magus.

Chapter Two

A fervent knock on the door interrupted Jax and Perry’s work. Duquessa? Might I have a moment?

As the powerful, lithe figure of General Ziri Axesinger strode into the study, Jax gave the woman a welcoming smile. Always.

Ziri acknowledged Perry with a dip of her chin before clasping her hands behind her back. I’ve just received word from my sources that the Savantian delegations are nearing the southwest border. They’re about a day out from arriving at Glennfeld.

They’re traveling together? Perry raised his eyebrows in surprise.

Ziri shook her head, her raven braids sweeping across her shoulders. Not exactly. Heartsworn’s caravan is about two leagues behind Lion’s Bane. They seem to be purposely keeping their distance from one another.

A wise move, Jax murmured. It would be just our luck for one of them to be assassinated during their journey here.

Perry grimaced at her morbid joke. Please, don’t even put the scenario out there, Jax.

Yes, Ziri agreed with a smirk. May we have one gathering that isn’t beset by a dead body?

Jax held up her hands in defense. It’s not like I orchestrate such terrible things.

We’re only teasing you, darling, Perry reassured her.

The sting of truth still brought heat to Jax’s cheeks. If our guests are nearing the border, we should set out for Glennfeld before dawn tomorrow. With our carriages, it will take a few hours to make the journey. I want to ensure we’re there to greet both delegations. She pushed her chair away from her desk, content with the work she had accomplished.

Aizen figured as much, Ziri said. He’s already assembling your escort.

"By escort, I’m assuming you mean ten thousand soldiers?" Jax rolled her eyes at the exaggeration.

Ziri chuckled, the sound like the low, melodic strings of a cello. No, he’s followed your orders and only selected seventy of his best Ducal Guard officers. Anything more, and he agreed it might be seen as an act of aggression on Saphire’s part.

Quite sensible. Rami Aizen had only been Captain of the Ducal Guard for a short while, but he had proven his merit numerous times over.

We’re prepared for a week-long stay. Ziri shifted on the balls of her feet. Do you think the negotiations will take longer than that?

Jax shuddered. Virtues, I hope not. If these men can’t agree within a few days, I don’t see much hope for success. She gathered the correspondences she needed to send and tucked them under the crook of her arm.

Perry collected his letters and followed suit. Are any of your courtiers joining us for this mission? he asked Jax as the three departed the study.

No. The only one whom I’d like to attend is Jaquobie, but he and Lysette aren’t departing Cetachi until tomorrow.

Jax thought fondly of the High Courtier, a man who had once felt like a vexing opponent when she first began her reign. He’d been in Cetachi these past few weeks working alongside Governor Darian Fangard to oversee Cetachi’s admission into the United Duchies. At least they’ll be home for Carriena and Bernard’s wedding. She beamed, anticipating the happy event glimmering on the horizon.

Uma and Sabine are ready to leave at your command. Ziri then glanced toward Perry as the trio strolled toward the correspondence tower containing Saphire’s prized crowned falcons. Will Hendrie be in attendance?

Perry shook his head. I won’t need his assistance. I’d rather he oversee any issues with the museum opening that may pop up in my absence. Hendrie Dumont, Perry’s former valet and current private secretary, was also a dear friend who’d accompanied them on many adventures.

"I hope you’ve